Match Preview: Brentford U21s host Bristol City in PDL clash | OneFootball

Brentford Under-21s are back in Professional Development League action on Sunday 1 February, when they welcome Bristol City Under-21s to Wheatsheaf Park (12pm kick-off GMT).

Sam Saunders’ side will be aiming to respond after a challenging midweek fixture, which saw the young Bees fall to a 4-0 defeat against Cardiff City.

Brentford were reduced to 10 men early on following a red card for goalkeeper Reggie Rose, with full-back Maxwell McKnight stepping in between the sticks for the remainder of the contest.

Sunday’s fixture is Brentford’s second game of the week and provides an immediate opportunity to return to winning ways, as the focus remains on delivering a strong response on home soil.

Looking ahead to the clash with Bristol City, McKnight reflected on the Cardiff defeat and the group’s mindset going into the weekend.

He said: “We were very disappointed with the result against Cardiff. Going in goal was just the lads showing their trust in me! Obviously the result didn’t go our way, but we are focused on the next game.

"We are very much a dominant side in games, so it’s about us taking our chances against Bristol and showing the quality that we are capable of.”

The versatile defender also highlighted the group’s adaptability and preparation, and added: “I have been doing a lot of extra things on and off the pitch.

"I am grateful to have played in a number of positions already this season and, for me, it just highlights my versatility, but also the rest of the team’s, because other players have done so too. We are excited for the game.”

About Bristol City U21s

The home side sit 15th in the league table, with five wins, three draws and eight losses thus far.

With 18 points so far in the PDL, the away side have won twice, lost twice and drawn once in their last five games.

The young Robins got their first victory in 2026 last time out as they cruised to a 3-1 win against Cardiff City

Last time out

Brentford U21s were beaten 4-0 by Cardiff City U21s in the Professional Development League on Tuesday afternoon at Leckwith Stadium.

The young Bees were reduced to ten men early on following a red card for goalkeeper Rose, with McKnight taking one for the team and playing more than 85 minutes in goal.

Despite showing resilience and competing well for long spells, the west Londoners conceded twice in each half as Cardiff made their numerical advantage count.

Brentford created several promising moments, particularly after the break, but were ultimately unable to find a way back into the contest.

Ticket information

Tickets for Tuesday's game are available here.

Adults - £5

65+ and under-25s - £3

Under-18s - £1

Match coverage

The club will have updates of the game against Bristol City on social media, as well as a match report on the club's website and app.